Sunday, January 30, 2011

If you've been around Jack lately, you know he does this adorable thing called Roni Love. He lays his head to the side and looks at you with those big eyes and your heart melts. So sweet and if you have been a lucky recipient of "Roni Love", you know just what I mean.

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Eric loves to meet for breakfast when he's at home and this morning was no exception. We met at Noshville on Broadway at 8:00. Pretty early for most of us. Too early for Ethan. Too late for Kyle. Kudos to the Jes, Allen, Emily and Danny. And a gold star to Molly who was only a few minutes late having driven in from Murfreesboro with Jack and Caleb in tow. Fun times for all.

Jonah was sporting an ice scraper for some strange reason. He didn't need to scrap his car this morning because it was Spring-like. Right, Emily? Where else can you have a Snow Day on Monday and a picnic in the park on Saturday. Only in the Sweet South!

Allen and I strategically sat at the end with our g-boys so that the guys could visit.

Jonzie reading Alice.

Couldn't pass up the chance to steal a kiss from Jack.

And then from Caleb.

Caleb was so excited to get to sit by Danny. He can't imagine why he wouldn't want a little boy just like him.

Allen telling on himself. Just a couple of mishaps. I'll let him share them if he so desires. Sometimes you have to laugh to keep from crying.

Look at Emily's expression. Priceless.

Funniest joke of the day is Jonah telling everyone that the handsome movie star behind PoPi is his daddy and the crazy lady is ....... MIMI!!!!! Oh, my. What does this boy think of me.

Friday, January 28, 2011

I don't really work 9-5 but it sounded like a catchy title. I really work 8:30 - 6. Here is a picture of the girls in the office. I can't tell you the fun we have. Not pictured is Tootsie, the dog, who thinks she's a princess and Dr. Don, the Big Cheese. We have the sweetest patients and the most relaxing office around. Our T. V. only plays fun, old family friendly shows. Everyone is always welcome and feels like they are at home.

It is no small thing to enjoy doing what you get paid to do. If you have ever had a job otherwise you know what I mean.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Molly on her 1st birthday. More sweet memories than we can count. You changed ourlives forever 30 years ago today. Blessings upon blessings wehave received from your presence and love in our lives.We love you, Molly.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

I know everyone is getting really tired of the snow. Even I went to work today. Yes, I have missed 3 days of work because I refuse to risk life and limb on the slick roads. Allen so generously volunteered/demanded to take me to work this morning and I let him. I truly love to wake up and see the white stuff. It brings back all those childhood memories of staying home from school. Even when we were homeschooling, I would let my kids have snow days. This morning, as we were driving, I had the urge to go walking on the Greenway. It really wasn't that cold and the snow was absolutely breathtaking. I knew it would be quiet and serene. Alas, I went to work instead. Maybe we will get just one more wet, fluffy, beautiful snow and I will endeavor to really enjoy it.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Monday, January 24, 2011

I'm not sure why I think I have to take 4 bags to work. There is no way I would have time to look through all this. I just feel so much more in control when I have all my stuff with me. For instance. In the black polka-dot bag I have my camera, a smaller bag with a toothbrush and toothpaste, etc., Bible and My Utmost for His Highest, planner, notebook, pens, pencils, highlighters, My Purse (with all it's contents), glasses case, phone case and keys. The other 3 bags are for things I might possibly need throughout the day. Most of the time I don't, but you never know. Is this some kind of issue I have? Does anyone else do this? Do I need professional help?

Sunday, January 23, 2011

How is it that some dates stick in your mind for 30 years? The due date of your first baby is one of those dates. Jan. 23, 1981 will forever bring memories of joy and anticipation. Nevermind I would wait four more days to welcome Molly.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

This is the movie we almost went to see today. Unfortunately, I ran out of gas before the movie started. Ha Ha. Yes, rarely do we actually go out to the movies, but we do watch them regularly at home. I am looking forward to seeing this one. Maybe next week. Maybe on DVD. Either way, it has Colin Firth. It must be good. Can you say Mr. Darcy???

Friday, January 21, 2011

Jonah spent the night and it was the perfect occasion for a breakfast picnic. Lots of yummy food, fun company (Ethan and Katherine were there as well), and a snowy day outside. What could be better. The rest of the day was spent reading books, watching Buzz, playing with toys and coloring. Fun times.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Last night, I was looking back over my blog posts. I thoroughly enjoyed reliving those memories and am so glad I took the time to record them. One thing I saw was sorely missing, were posts dedicated to Allen Patrick. Allen is truly one of the most modest and unassuming men I have ever known. Never one to push himself to the forefront, his loving nature, a willingness to listen and servant attitude make him a desirable friend. An insatiable hunger for knowledge and the Word of God and a God-given ability to impart what he knows to others makes him a gifted teacher and writer. Ever patient and sacrificial, he takes care of his wife and son with love and gentleness. God has truly blessed us and we are proud to call him our son.

Here is a link to a fun video of Allen and Jonah playing the guitar. So cute.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Allen and I went over today to play with the boys while Molly did a little shopping and met her friend for lunch. We had a great time chasing Caleb and coaxing Jack. The boys always are extra good, but today even more so. They ate their lunch, opening their mouths like little birds waiting for worms to be dropped in. One time, Caleb thought it was his turn for a bite and opened his mouth so wide. I felt bad when I gave the bite to Jack ( it was his turn). They also get puffs now. They love them. We used to give our babies Cheerios, but puffs are supposed to be healthier and they melt so they don't get choked as easily. I encouraged a friend to get in her daughter's pictures more, so I thought I would practice what I preach.

Sometimes I look at these two and I still can't believe we have two babies at the same time. Allen had twin sisters so it isn't such an unusual thing for him. For me.... well sometimes I still can't believe it.

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Congratulations, Ethan, on reaching this milestone in your life. We love you and pray God's blessngs on your life. I left my camera at church this morning so I am having to "borrow" a picture from Lisa's really great blog post today.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Friday, January 14, 2011

Saw this picture today on Facebook and it brought back so many memories of this past summer. Since it is so cold, I thought we could all stare at it and remember how hot and sweaty we were just six months ago and think about how hot and sweaty we will be in six months. We have such short memories. I, for one, do not hate the winter. I love the seasons of the year and how well Tennessee portrays each one. As I have reminded my niece, Emily, many times, we would not appreciate the warmth and beauty of Spring if we didn't have the cold and dreariness of Winter. Don't get me wrong. I don't want to live in a place where it is bitter cold 5 months out of the year. But a few snowy and bitter, cold days are just part of wonderful cycle of the seasons. Am I sounding a little too Pollyannnaish? Here is the link to Emily's blog. She'll give you a good dose of the winter blues. :) www.emily-rushton.blogspot.com/

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Imagine. if you will, your favorite hobby. You are obsessed with every aspect of this "thing". Now imagine you are given 2 gigantic bags of __________ to use however you want. Right now, Jessica loves fabric and anything to do with her newly found creative gene.I happen to have ALOT of fabric. I don't feel as guilty about my stash when it can be shared. Allen Patrick thought he was past piles of fabric and straight pins everywhere. Not so. Ihave joke with him before about me training him for Jessica. Here is another case in point.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

I love this picture of Eric. His friend, Austin, took it using this strange medium called "film". "Film" is so different than digital in that it can't be manipulated as easily. I think this picture is perfect. I know, it's a little grainy. Maybe even a little out of focus. But I think it captures the essence of Eric. Thoughtful, introspective, searching, maybe even a little sad. I look at it and wonder what's going on in his head. I have no idea most of the time. One thing I know, Eric has been stretched during this season of his life and God will use it for His purposes.

Your room is ready, Eric. Looking forward to seeing you this weekend. Be careful.